If you’re passionate about animal health and dream of working with wildlife in one of South Africa’s most unique conservation environments, this is your moment. SANParks is offering a 24-month fixed-term internship for a qualified Animal Health Technologist, based at the Veterinary Wildlife Services office in Kimberley, with a placement in Mokala National Park.
This rare opportunity is ideal for someone who’s ready to step into the field — literally — and assist with the capture, care, relocation, and health management of South Africa’s iconic wildlife species.
Internship Location
- Mokala National Park, Northern Cape
Mokala National Park, proclaimed in June 2007, is South Africa’s newest park, located 80km southwest of Kimberley. Named after the Setswana word for Camelthorn tree (Acacia erioloba), the park features striking, twisted specimens ranging from small shrubs to towering 16m trees.
What You’ll Need to Qualify
To be considered for this internship, candidates must meet the following minimum criteria:
- National Diploma in Animal Health Technology
- Grade 12 (Matric)
- 1 year of experience working with wildlife or livestock is beneficial
- Solid understanding of wildlife industry operations and protocols
- Physically fit and able to perform hands-on, physically demanding tasks
- Basic understanding of Health and Safety principles
- No criminal record (a SAPS verification will be conducted)
- Must not have participated in any internship programme before
- Age must be between 18 and 35 years
- A valid Code B or C1 driver’s license is advantageous
Key Responsibilities
This internship involves more than just paperwork or observation. You’ll be working on the ground — and often on the move — with a team of professionals during live animal handling, medical procedures, and field-based relocation.
Here’s what you can expect to be doing:
- Support animal capture, holding, and relocation activities
- Assist during long-distance travel and after-hours operations, including weekends and public holidays
- Perform sample collection and assist with treatments and research projects
- Help tranquilize wildlife as necessary and document health data
- Maintain daily administrative tasks related to the role
- Care for animals in boma environments, including feeding, cleaning, and facility maintenance
- Operate and help maintain capture equipment
- Support the procurement process related to veterinary needs
- Drive small vehicles as needed in the field
Please note: This is a high-risk environment involving wildlife, capture equipment, and potentially hazardous materials. Full training and guidance will be provided, but candidates must be comfortable working in unpredictable and physically demanding settings.
Accommodation and Support
Accommodation will be provided at Mokala National Park for the duration of the contract. Interns will be fully supported by experienced staff, with access to training that builds essential field skills.
How to Apply
If this opportunity sounds like the right fit for your passion and skill set, here’s how to apply:
- Write a clear and concise application letter
- Attach your detailed CV
- Email your documents to: celine.hendricks@sanparks.org
Be sure to include any certifications or supporting documents that strengthen your application.
Deadline to Apply
31 July 2025
If you haven’t received a response within 14 days of the closing date, kindly consider your application unsuccessful.
A Note from SANParks
South African National Parks is an equal opportunity employer. The organization reserves the right not to make an appointment should a suitable candidate not be identified.
This internship could be the first step in a meaningful career working with wildlife and conservation. If you’ve got the knowledge, the heart, and the stamina — apply today and make your impact where it truly matters.